Two sisters from the same elementary school were among the eight people killed in Saturday's shooting at an Allen, Texas, outlet mall.
They were identified as Daniela Mendoza, a fourth grader, and Sofia Mendoza, a second grader, Wylie Independent School District Superintendent David Vinson said in a letter to families. Both attended Cox Elementary in Sachse, Texas.
Their mother, Ilda, remains in critical condition, Vinson added.
The school's principal, Krista Wilson, described the girls as “rays of sunshine.”
“Words cannot express the sadness we feel as we grieve the loss of our students. Our thoughts and prayers are with the Mendoza family, the families of the victims, and all those affected by this senseless tragedy,” the superintendent wrote.
"Daniela and Sofia will not be forgotten. Hug your kids, and tell them you love them," he added.
Cox families and staff were notified of their deaths and a crisis team is “ready to provide any support that is needed,” the letter said.